Page 74 of Jolt's Vengeance

I think of Jolt, of the club, of all the strength I've found since leaving Billings.

I take a deep breath, steeling myself. "Trevor," I say, trying to keep my voice steady, "ye need to back the fuck off. Right. Now."

He just smirks, reaching for me again. "Or what, Aggie? What're you gonna do?"

As his hand comes toward me, and time seems to slow.

I can feel my heart pounding, hear my own ragged breathing.

But beneath the fear, that familiar fire ignites.

I'm not the same girl who left Billings. I'm stronger now. I'm a survivor.

"This," I growl, and I lash out with everything I have.

My fist connects with Trevor's jaw, snapping his head back.

For a moment, I feel a surge of triumph.

But it's short-lived.

"You fuckin' bitch!" he roars, his eyes blazing with fury.

Before I can react, he's on me, pinning me against the fence again.

The cold metal digs into my back as he presses closer, his breath hot on my face.

"You never did know your place. That’s your fucking problem!" he hisses, and I see a glint of metal in the dim light.

My blood runs cold as I realize he's pulled out a knife.

"Trevor, don't—" I start, but my words are cut off by a scream as he drags the blade from just below my jaw down to my sternum.

The pain is white-hot, searing.

He growls, but I barely hear him over the roaring in my ears. "This should teach you some manners."

Adrenaline surges through me, and suddenly, everything becomes crystal clear.

I won't die here.

I won't let him win.

With a strength I didn't know I possessed, I bring my knee up hard between his legs.

As he doubles over, I shove him away and scan the ground desperately.

My hand closes around a jagged rock, and I don't hesitate.

I swing with all my might, catching him on the temple.

There's a sickening thud, and Trevor crumples to the ground.

For a moment, I stand here, panting, the rock still clutched in my trembling hand.

Then reality crashes back in.

"Fuck," I mutter, stumbling away from Trevor's motionless form.